For many people, the holiday season is the most wonderful time of the year. It brings endless gatherings, holiday shopping and time with family, but this is not the case for everyone. There are some people who are lonely during this time of year and messages of togetherness and family can intensify their feelings of loneliness. They may be reminded of loved ones they are no longer connected with or that they have lost, whether by death or separation. Older adults are particularly at risk for feeling lonely during the holidays, as they may live alone, far from family or be marginalized within their communities.

What is loneliness?

Loneliness and isolation are not synonymous with being alone. Many people are perfectly happy being in solitude and rarely feel lonely. Others may be surrounded by people but still feel lonely. Loneliness is “the distress people feel when reality fails to meet their ideal of social relationships”. Nor is it the same as being depressed, although the two often go hand in hand.

During COAPS trainings, we talk in depth about the importance of social connectedness and the power of reaching out to older adults. Agencies and organizations across the country are also talking about loneliness and ways to help older adults who are lonely during the holidays. Here are a few resources for you or for those with whom you work. Feel free to comment with any additional resources we didn’t post!

1.The National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a) with the AARP Foundation, launched the Home for the Holidays Campaign. Check out their brochure, Expand Your Circles! The brochure includes a simple self-assessment tool to help identify loneliness in older adults.

2.The National Council on Aging has put together a great list of 4 ways to help Seniors combat loneliness! Read the full article here

Make communication a priority

Encourage and facilitate social activities through local organizations

Explore hobbies and other areas of interest

Identify opportunities to combat loneliness at any time

3.You can find resources through the federal Eldercare Locator, at 800-677-1116